Review: I LOVED, I LOST, I MADE SPAGHETTI at Penobscot Theatre Company

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. The Penobscot Theatre Company in Bangor proved this cliché to be true in their performances of "I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti." This one-woman show runs from April 27th - May 14th. Directed by Michael Marotta, it is based on the autobiography of the same name by former Harper's Magazine Vice President of Public Relations, Guilia Melucci. For eight lucky audience members, tickets to the show came with a three-course Italian dinner prepared onstage by actress, Michelle Damato.

Even though she is from Florida, this play really hit home for Damato who spent her teenage years in Maine. She is a graduate of both Rockland District High School and the University of Southern Maine. Like Melucci, she is of Italian descent and credits her mother with teaching her to cook. She said the best piece of cooking advice her mother ever gave her was to clean as she cooks.

"I've taken this to heart, so by the time I've finished cooking, you can't even tell I've been there! It's a lovely practice as it allows you to be able to relax afterwards, since most of the clean-up has already been done," Damato said.

Along with Damato's cooking, the set was especially helpful in bringing "Spaghetti" to the stage. Designed by Tricia Hobbs, the stage was set with a fully-functional kitchen where Damato prepares and serves the meal during the show. Damato plays the role of Melucci who recounts several humorous and heartwarming anecdotes about her past relationships, her family and her love of food.

Although there are several references to Italian culture throughout the play, anyone can relate to these stories regardless of their background or relationship status. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good laugh with heart. For more information or to purchase tickets to "I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti," you may contact the Penobscot Theatre Company by visiting their website at penobscottheatre.org or calling them at 207-942-3333.

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